Jeff Weld, executive director of the Iowa Governor’s STEM Advisory Council, has accepted a one-year role with the National Science Foundation and the University of Northern Iowa. In this position, Weld will serve as senior policy advisor and assistant director for STEM Education at the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy and staff associate in the Directorate for Education and Human Resources at the National Science Foundation. Weld’s assignment is effective immediately and extends through Dec. 10, 2018.

“Jeff is a true champion of STEM, not only in Iowa, but throughout the nation,” said Gov. Reynolds. “There is no better individual to serve the Administration on policy issues related to science, technology, engineering, and math education. His experience in Washington will undoubtedly strengthen and advance STEM initiatives here at home.”

Cindy Dietz, director of business communications for Rockwell Collins, has been appointed as interim executive director of the STEM Council. Dietz has been integral in expanding STEM education in the state. She contributed to the Iowa STEM Education Roadmap, which ultimately shaped the STEM Council. As one of the original STEM Council members, she has been involved in various working groups and initiatives that have impacted students throughout Iowa.

“We are honored to have Cindy Dietz serve as the interim executive director of the STEM Council,” said Roger Hargens, Accumold president and CEO and co-chair of the STEM Council. “She has already proven her leadership in Iowa STEM and we look forward to continued growth and advancements in the coming year.”

Carrie Rankin will serve as the managing director of the STEM Council. Rankin has been the STEM Council assistant director for development since 2013.